RARE KUBA SWORD SHILELE

Few African cultures can boast a history as long and as proud as the Kuba who live along the Snakuru River.  Their history parallels Great Zimbabwe at its founding and grew along with the Benin. Kuba Chief Shamba-Bolongongo (1600-20) visited Benin and introduced the iconic Kuba knife ikula, which was subsequently represented in Benin sculpture.  The Kuba prospered in a society which valued material things and ordinary objects, particularly those associated with the Royal Court, were made to the highest standard.  Their geographic location and the ferocity of their warriors made them virtually free from the predation of slavers.

Fischer fig.277.  25 3/4 overall.  19 1/4 finely forged d.e. blade with thick diamond section medial developing to off set edges.  Flared through its length and decorated with forged fullers enclosing transverse banding.  Finely carved wood hilt with flared base, banded and beaded grip and flared top (chipped in antiquity and worn over from use) below conical pommel.  Hilt shows very fine rich patina.  Blade uniformly dark with old stable surface encrustation.  Only example we have ever offered.